‘Delicious Romance’ (2023) Netflix Movie Review - A Deliciously Real Take on Women’s Lives

Delicious Romance, a Chinese film that delves into the lives of three inseparable friends, unfolds as a heartfelt journey through the complexities of adulthood, relationships, and societal expectations. Within its narrative, a delicate balance is struck between humor and relatable experiences, offering a refreshing perspective on female friendship and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. While the film successfully captures the essence of contemporary women's lives, there are moments where its execution could have been more refined, resulting in a slightly mixed viewing experience.

One of the film's undeniable strengths lies in the captivating performances of Wang Ju, Baby Zhang Hanyun, and Li Chun. Their on-screen chemistry breathes life into the enduring bond between the friends, allowing their struggles and triumphs to resonate deeply with the audience.

Delicious Romance cleverly addresses the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society, skillfully showcasing the nuances of each character's journey. Xin's exploration of work-life balance and professional fulfillment unravels the internal conflicts many faces in their pursuit of happiness. Meanwhile, Meng's encounter with workplace sexism sheds light on the pervasive biases that women confront daily. Through these storylines, viewers are compelled to reflect on the weight of societal expectations and the ongoing battle for gender equality.

The film gracefully weaves moments of levity throughout, providing respite from the characters' hardships and inviting bursts of laughter and enjoyment. Notably, the witty banter between the friends and their clever strategies to tackle personal challenges add a delightful touch to the narrative.

However, there are instances where the film falls short of its potential. Certain subplots feel rushed, lacking the necessary development to fully engage the audience. Jing's journey, in particular, suffers from this hastiness, as her transition from a struggling restaurant owner to an influencer and back feels abrupt and could have benefited from a more nuanced exploration.

Moreover, Delicious Romance occasionally relies on familiar tropes and predictable plot points, diminishing the impact of certain scenes. While it successfully addresses the characters' challenges, a deeper exploration of their emotional complexities could have offered a more nuanced perspective. These missed opportunities result in occasional moments of formulaic storytelling.

Nevertheless, the heart of Delicious Romance lies in its exploration of friendship and self-discovery. The unwavering support the friends offer each other becomes a testament to the strength of their bond. Their realization that authenticity and self-knowledge are fundamental to finding happiness strikes a chord with viewers, underscoring the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of societal pressures.

Under the skillful direction of Chen and Hsu, Delicious Romance captures the essence of contemporary female experiences in China. It presents a zeitgeisty comedy that delicately reflects the struggles and triumphs of women. The film's message of female solidarity and empowerment shines through, leaving viewers with a renewed sense of hope and inspiration.

In conclusion, Delicious Romance presents a heartfelt portrayal of friendship and self-discovery, shedding light on the significant challenges women encounter in society. While it occasionally succumbs to predictable storytelling and lacks certain character developments, its charm and relatability make it an enjoyable cinematic experience. The film's positive themes and its dedication to capturing the essence of contemporary women's lives outweigh its shortcomings, making it a worthwhile watch that resonates long after the credits roll.

Final Score- [6.5/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times